Itinerary

1. Tour Departure

   • Meet your friendly local guide and fellow travelers at our designated meeting point, right in the heart of Bari Vecchia. 
   • After a quick introduction and overview of the tour, it’s time to step back in time and begin your journey through Bari’s historic center.

2. Piazza del Ferrarese & Piazza Mercantile

   • Start your walk in Bari Vecchia’s two most iconic squares. 
   • Take in the vibrant atmosphere, admire the historic facades, and witness daily life as locals gather and fishermen sell their fresh catch near the old harbor. It’s the perfect snapshot of Bari’s enduring charm.

3. Basilica of San Nicola

   • Visit one of Bari’s most treasured landmarks: the Basilica of San Nicola. This magnificent church, blending Romanesque and Baroque styles, houses the relics of Saint Nicholas — the patron saint of the city and inspiration for Santa Claus. 
   • Learn how this sacred site has become a place of pilgrimage for both Catholics and Orthodox Christians.

4. Cathedral of San Sabino

   • Next, explore the Cathedral of San Sabino, another architectural gem of Bari Vecchia. 
   • Step inside to admire its majestic columns, intricate frescoes, and ancient mosaics — all telling the story of faith and artistry in Apulian history.

5. Norman-Swabian Castle

   • Make your way to the Norman-Swabian Castle, a powerful 13th-century fortress built by Emperor Frederick II. 
   • Walk around its thick stone walls and towering battlements as your guide shares tales of medieval intrigue and the castle’s role in Bari’s defense over the centuries.

6. Via Arco Basso – Strada delle Orecchiette

   • Wander into one of Bari’s most beloved traditions on Via Arco Basso, famously known as Strada delle Orecchiette. 
   • Here, you’ll see local women seated at wooden tables, handcrafting the iconic ear-shaped pasta right on the street — a time-honored culinary ritual passed down through generations.

7. Tasting a Local Specialty

   • End your walking tour with a well-earned treat! Choose between a slice of warm, freshly baked focaccia barese — crispy on the outside, soft inside — or cool down with a scoop of rich artisanal gelato from a traditional Bari bakery. The perfect finale to your cultural and culinary adventure.